Sock Arch Support Assemblage Reducing Foot Strain
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing socks inadequately provide structural support to the arch, Achilles tendon, and ankle regions of the foot, leading to pain and strain, particularly for individuals with conditions like plantar fasciitis or flat feet, as they focus primarily on cushioning rather than structural reinforcement.
Innovation Solution
A sock design featuring one or more support assemblages with varying elasticity coefficients, including arch, Achilles, and ankle support assemblages, to provide additional structural support and stability to these critical foot regions, utilizing tuck-stitching for a denser weave and incorporating materials like padded inserts or silicon for enhanced stiffness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If cushioning materials are used throughout the sock, then comfort is improved, but structural support for the arch and ankle regions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different material properties to different regions of the sock. Specifically, the arch region (from heel to toe along the inner side) and ankle region (around the ankle bone) use cushioning material with higher loft and lower density for comfort, while the toe region and midfoot use reinforcement material with lower loft and higher density for structural support. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction by providing comfort where needed without compromising structural integrity in load-bearing areas.
2Strength
If reinforcement material is used in the arch region, then structural support is improved, but comfort and cushioning are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent strategically places reinforcement material only in specific regions (toe and midfoot) where structural support is most needed, while using cushioning material in the arch region where comfort is prioritized. The arch region's reinforcement comes from the structural design of the knit pattern itself rather than dense material, maintaining comfort while providing necessary support.
Solution Approach 2:
The sock is divided into distinct functional zones with different material properties. The arch region is segmented as a separate zone from the toe and midfoot regions, allowing independent optimization of material characteristics for each zone's specific functional requirements.
3Ease of manufacture
If uniform elasticity is used throughout the sock, then manufacturing is simplified, but regional support requirements are not met
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements region-specific elasticity characteristics by using different stitch patterns and material densities in different zones. The arch and ankle regions use more elastic cushioning material with relaxed knit patterns, while the toe and midfoot use less elastic reinforcement material with tighter knit patterns. This allows the sock to adapt to the specific biomechanical requirements of each foot region while remaining manufacturable through standard knitting techniques.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The sock effectively reduces pain and strain in the arch region, reinforces proper foot curvature, and minimizes injuries associated with the Achilles tendon and ankle, offering improved comfort and support without compromising on comfort.
Implementation Method 1
the second elasticity coefficient is lower than the first elasticity coefficient
Implementation Method 2
utilizing tuck-stitching for a denser weave
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates generally to a sock having one or more support assemblages for providing structural support to one or more regions of the foot of the wearer. In some exemplary embodiments, a support assemblage may be an arch support assemblage that is adapted to cover an arch of the foot. In some exemplary embodiments, a support assemblage may be an Achilles support assemblage that is adapted to cover the Achilles tendon of the foot. In some exemplary embodiments, a support assemblage may be an ankle support assemblage that is adapted to cover a portion of the ankle of the foot. In some exemplary embodiments, the sock may comprise multiple support assemblages to provide structural support to different regions of the foot of the wearer. Typically, a support assemblage will have an elasticity coefficient that is lower than an elasticity coefficient of the other areas of the sock.